The availability of jobs in building is directly related to the ease with which home buyers can access the market. The need for affordable housing in the UK has perhaps never been greater than it is now. Although house prices have fallen over the last year or so, many first time buyers still cannot get their feet on the first rung of the property ladder.

This problem has of course been exacerbated by the recession and the credit crunch with banks reluctant to lend, whilst they nullify their risks. The knock on effect has of course meant the construction industry in particular being hit hard, with a shortage of jobs in building amongst others.
However, the Government has provided some hope in October with the news that they have provided ?1 billion worth of help for house building since June. This should benefit all parts of the country with almost ?400m allocated in September to deliver over 6,000 more affordable homes. The effect is bound to be seen in an increase of jobs in building.

The Government kickstart scheme will also revive various building projects delayed by the recession, with ?50 million being pumped in to building a further 2,000 homes. This will be a welcome boost not only to first time buyers but also to the construction industry and those seeking gainful employment.
Firms hoping to apply for the funding will have to give assurances to the Government that they will offer apprenticeships, as well as local jobs in building and related professions. In fact the scheme is expected to create at least 1,500 apprenticeship places over the next two years, with a further 1,300 places anticipated through the Government's ?1.5bn Housing Pledge.